The Best Jedi – & Makes His Fall Even More Tragic
The “Star Wars” universe is rich with lore and intricate details, often revealing more about its characters as the saga unfolds. One such detail from “The Clone Wars” animated series that underscores Anakin Skywalker’s prowess as a Jedi—and simultaneously foreshadows his tragic fall—occurs in Season 3, Episode 16, titled “Altar of Mortis.”
In this episode, Anakin confronts the Son, who embodies the dark side of the Force on Mortis, a mystical planet strong with the Force. The Son has captured Ahsoka Tano, Anakin’s Padawan, and Anakin must confront the epitome of darkness to save her. Here we see Anakin not only overpowering the Son but also briefly controlling both him and the Daughter, representing the light side, showcasing his unprecedented potential and mastery over the Force.
This profound act proves Anakin as one of the best Jedi not merely for his combat skills—which were certainly formidable—but for his unparalleled connection to the Force. It’s a moment that exhibits his capability for balance within the Force—a balance he would later disrupt. The scene is masterful in demonstrating his raw power and deep compassion in wanting to save his apprentice.
However, this significant event adds layers to Anakin’s eventual fall to the dark side. It presents what might have been—had he not been led astray—and makes his transformation into Darth Vader even more heartbreaking. His descent is not one of a weak-willed or less capable individual but rather one of Shakespearean gravity: a hero with exceptional abilities brought low by personal flaws and external manipulation.
In conclusion, “The Clone Wars” furnishes fans with this poignant detail highlighting that Anakin was indeed one of the finest Jedi to wield a lightsaber—a tragic hero whose fall was as profound as his strength in the light.